Career Map: Environmental Science Technician

Position Title Environmental Science Technician
Alternate Title Environmental Protection Technician
Education & Training Level Mid-level, Bachelor’s degree preferred, not always required
Education & Training Level Description Most environmental science technicians need an associate’s degree or 2 years of postsecondary training. New technicians are often trained on the job by more experienced environmental science technicians.
Brief job description The environmental science technician is responsible for conducting surveys, counting various species of concern, as well as monitoring species, habitat interaction and behavior changes as a result of proposed actions.
Preferred Level of Education Because of the wide range of tasks, environments, and industries in which these technicians work, there are jobs that do not require postsecondary education, and others that require a bachelor’s degree.
Preferred Level of Experience See the Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information.
Estimated/Expected Salary See the Bureau of Labor Statistics for more information.
Job Profile

The environmental science technician is responsible for conducting surveys, counting various species of concern, as well as monitoring species, habitat interaction and behavior changes as a result of proposed actions.

Environmental science technicians perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those affecting health. Many work under the supervision of environmental scientists and specialists, who direct their work and evaluate their results.

In the wind industry, environmental science technician are responsible for day-to-day environmental monitoring, logging, and reporting in accordance with the project-specific environmental monitoring plan. These activities can include carrying out pre- and post-construction studies as well as unique research into species or habitat interaction with the proposed action. The technician may also be responsible for assisting with the initial environmental data collection and compilation for project proposals, environmental monitoring during construction, and environmental monitoring for environmental compliance during operations.

Environmental science technicians typically do the following:

  • Inspect establishments, including public places and businesses, to ensure that there are no environmental, health, or safety hazards.
  • Set up and maintain equipment used to monitor pollution levels, such as remote sensors that measure emissions from smokestacks.
  • Collect samples of air, soil, water, and other materials for laboratory analysis.
  • Perform scientific tests to identify and measure levels of pollutants in samples.
  • Prepare charts and reports that summarize test results.
  • Discuss test results and analyses with clients.

Many environmental science technicians often work on teams with scientists, engineers, and technicians in other fields to solve complex problems related to environmental degradation, protection, and public health.

Most environmental science technicians typically work for either state or local government or for private consulting firms. In state and local governments, environmental science technicians enforce regulations that protect the environment and people’s health. They spend a lot of time inspecting businesses and public places and investigating complaints related to air quality, water quality, and food safety. They may issue fines or close establishments that violate environmental or health regulations. In private consulting firms, environmental science technicians help clients monitor and manage the environment and comply with regulations. For example, they help businesses develop cleanup plans for contaminated sites, and they recommend ways to reduce, control, or eliminate pollution. Also, environmental science technicians conduct feasibility studies for, and monitor the environmental impact of, new construction projects.
Job Skills

The environmental science technician working in the wind industry will be able to identify habitats and have knowledge of local species, their habitats, and how they interact with wind facilities. They will understand monitoring plans, monitoring processes, data collection, and reporting. They will also have knowledge of sound monitoring. They should also possess the following skills:

  • Analytical skills. Environmental science technicians must be able to carry out a wide range of laboratory and field tests, and their results must be accurate and precise.
  • Critical-thinking skills. Environmental science technicians reach their conclusions through sound reasoning and judgment. They have to be able to determine the best way to address environmental hazards.
  • Interpersonal skills. Environmental science technicians need to be able to work well with others as part of a team, because they often work together with scientists and other technicians.
  • Listening skills. Environmental science technicians must carefully follow instructions given to them by environmental scientists and specialists, because any mistakes can invalidate the results of their experiments and investigations.
  • Speaking skills. Environmental science technicians must be able to discuss their results with clients and colleagues.
Writing skills. Environmental science technicians must document the results of their work in written reports.
Resources Bureau of Labor Statistics: Environmental Science and Protection Technician

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